Cain Velasquez Confirms He Won’t Need Shoulder Surgery, but Next Title Defense on Hold

There was all kinds of confusion following Cain Velasquez’s fight with Junior dos Santos at UFC 166. Despite winning, and seemingly healthy, Velasquez initially landed on the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) medically suspended list due to a possible fractured jaw.

Velasquez and his camp were baffled, as he had felt no ill effects from the fight.

The TDLR eventually rescinded the suspension, explaining that it was issued in error.

Velasquez eventually did notice issues with his left shoulder, however.

Following two MRIs, Velasquez discovered that he has a torn labrum in his left shoulder.

He confirmed to UFC Tonight, what MMAWeekly.com sources initially stated, that it is believed he will not need surgery, but should instead be able to rehabilitate the shoulder.

Velasquez told UFC Tonight that he would meet again with his doctor in a couple of weeks to determine a timetable for his recovery.

The UFC has been holding out on its initial plans to do a live event in Mexico until Velasquez is ready to go. UFC president Dana White has stated that the promotion won’t do Mexico without Velasquez.

Velasquez is next expected to defend his belt against Fabricio Werdum, but until he gets a timetable for his return, the bout remains on hold.